Canada’s national women’s flag football team emerged victorious over the United States to claim the world championship title, while the men’s team secured a spot at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics during the International Federation of American Football (IFAF) world championships in Düsseldorf, Germany. The women’s team, having already secured a spot with a 20-6 win over Mexico in the semi-finals, concluded a flawless tournament by defeating the Americans 27-20 in the final match.
Frederique Morneau stood out with three touchdown receptions for Canada, and quarterback Sara Parker connected with Caroline Moquin-Joubert for another score. Parker, who recorded a total of 23 touchdown passes, was honored as the most valuable player of the women’s tournament.
In a thrilling third-place match, the Canadian men’s team sealed their ticket to the 2028 Olympics by defeating Mexico 34-26. Quarterback Michael O’Connor led the charge with 294 yards and five touchdowns, while former NFL tight end Antony Auclair contributed significantly with 149 receiving yards and two touchdown receptions. Daniel Petermann also found the end zone twice, and James Drysdale added another score.
Both the Canadian women’s and men’s teams will be heading to the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles after their remarkable performances. The top two teams from each flag football event, excluding the host United States, secured qualification for the Olympics, where flag football will debut as an official sport.
Canada’s head coach, Paul LaPolice, expressed his pride in the team’s achievements, stating, “We came to the world championships with a winning mindset, and this group delivered. Qualifying for the Olympics is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our athletes when it truly mattered.” He further highlighted the significance of both men’s and women’s teams qualifying simultaneously, indicating a promising future for Canadian flag football.
In the men’s final, the United States emerged victorious against Italy with a score of 42-26, showcasing the intense competition at the championships.
